Can some medications make me more heat sensitive?
Biology/Immunity General Health
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
Yes, certain medications can make you more likely to experience heat-related illness. While we can’t control the weather, we can prepare and help more people stay safe. To understand how medications can affect our bodies when outside temperatures rise, let’s look at the body’s normal cooling process. Our warm-blooded bodies are designed to maintain a fairly Read more…
What is immune imprinting, and should the public be worried about it?
Biology/Immunity Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Q: What is immune imprinting, and should the public be worried about it? A: Don’t let statements about imprinting stop you from getting your annual vaccines for COVID and flu. Immune imprinting refers to the fact that our immune response to a vaccine (or infection) is affected by previous exposures to similar vaccines (or infections). Read more…
How do PFAS (forever chemicals) affect my health?
Biology/Immunity General Health
Chana Davis, PhD
PFAS (a type of forever chemical) are all around us – in water, food, dust, consumer products and more. Exposure to high levels of PFAS is a serious health hazard but the impact of low levels (that most people face) is unclear. PFAS pose the greatest threat to those who are highly exposed or are vulnerable Read more…
Can I get shingles over and over again?
Biology/Immunity Infectious Diseases
Roopa Seshadri, PhD, AM
Although not very common, getting shingles more than once is possible. The shingles vaccine can reduce the chance of recurrence. If you have had shingles, there is a small chance that you will get it again. This is called recurrent shingles. This is really understudied, and not a lot is known about why or how Read more…
If a variant has mutations in the spike protein, does that mean the vaccines won’t work?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Kristen Panthagani, MD, PhD
Tl;dr: mutations can make vaccines less effective, but that doesn’t mean they render them useless. Immunity isn’t all or nothing, and the current vaccines still provide protection, especially against severe disease and death. Many have been concerned that because (so far) our COVID vaccines have used the spike protein from the original SARS-CoV-2 virus (also Read more…
If I’ve already been infected with Omicron, am I protected against new variants?
Biology/Immunity
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The OG Omicron variant doesn’t seem to produce great cross-protection against other variants. BUT, if you were vaccinated + infected, the protection is MUCH higher. Omicron is spawning a lot of new “sub-variants,” no doubt thanks to the millions of chances it’s had to replicate and win the mutation lottery. Two sub-variants of Omicron Read more…
Why do some people not get COVID when everyone around them has it?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Guest Author Jessica Williams-Nguyen, PhD
TLDR; Many things impact infection risk, including vaccination status, prior exposures, genetics, and the specific details of one’s contact with infected people. Even when conditions seem ideal for transmission, it’s not a done deal. This is why, if COVID comes to your home, it’s worth trying to limit spread. And sometimes, you just get lucky. Read more…
Did getting exposed to fewer germs for the last 2 years weaken our immune systems?
Biology/Immunity Families/Kids
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Not likely. If your kids are suddenly getting sick a lot, this is likely due to “catching up” on exposures rather than a weakened immune system. Many families with young kids have been hunkered down for the better part of two years– a good % of a young child’s entire life. While isolation Read more…
Should I get a booster shot if I’ve already had COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Yes! Even if you have already been infected, getting the recommended booster vaccine is a good idea. There is some evidence that hybrid immunity, or immunity obtained from getting vaccinated and having a COVID-19 infection, can provide good protection against COVID-19. So why should I get a booster if I had COVID? Hybrid immunity can Read more…
I’m vaccinated, and I’ve recovered from Omicron. Can I finally let my guard down?
Biology/Immunity
Guest Author Jessica Williams-Nguyen, PhD
🙋 Asking for a friend… No wait, actually, I’m asking for me. After almost two years of precautions and a total of 10 vaccine shots, this Nerdy Girl’s family of four came down with COVID over the winter holidays, most likely the omicron variant. Now that we’re all fully recovered (thank you, vaccines!), it’s time Read more…
Will an infection after vaccination give me an immune boost?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: YES! We’ve gotten this question SO many times recently but had to rely on immunological best guesses (see here). *FINALLY* we have some real world data from that famous Provincetown, MA outbreak last summer. The study tested blood and nasal swabs of 35 vaccinated people who were PCR tested during the outbreak investigation, including Read more…
Can I take an antibody test to see if I need a booster shot?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Unfortunately, no. TL;DR: 💥Our current antibody tests can’t tell us how well someone is protected from COVID-19 infection or disease. Whether you have been previously infected, vaccinated, or a combination of the two, the recent authorization of booster shots in many countries has people wondering if they need one yet. While it would be Read more…
Want to know more about infection vs. vaccine induced immunity to SARS-CoV-2?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Immunologists who *really* do their own research on this topic have thoughts. Check out this infographic from the British Society for Immunology: TL;DR: ➡️ For most people vaccination will induce more effective & longer lasting immunity compared to natural infection. ➡️ Even if you’ve had COVID-19, vaccination will significantly boost the immunity you have from Read more…
Can sleep boost my immune function?
Biology/Immunity General Health
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Today we focus on the importance of sleep health as an evidence-based strategy for improving your immune system during the COVID-19 pandemic. ** Long-term sleep deficiency is associated with a range of co-morbidities (type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, dementia) that put you at higher susceptibility and more severe outcomes of COVID-19. You can reduce Read more…
Why should I get vaccinated if I already had COVID?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines Videos
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The vaccine boosts your immune response and gives you better protection against new variants. ➡️ Most people who get COVID-19 do have some antibodies after they recover. ➡️ But the level of antibodies varies from one person to another… So some people have a lot of protection, others–not so much. ➡️ Immune response to Read more…
Yes, certain medications can make you more likely to experience heat-related illness. While we can’t control the weather, we can prepare and help more people stay safe. To understand how medications can affect our bodies when outside temperatures rise, let’s look at the body’s normal cooling process. Our warm-blooded bodies are designed to maintain a fairly Read more…
What is immune imprinting, and should the public be worried about it?
Biology/Immunity Infectious Diseases VaccinesElisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Q: What is immune imprinting, and should the public be worried about it? A: Don’t let statements about imprinting stop you from getting your annual vaccines for COVID and flu. Immune imprinting refers to the fact that our immune response to a vaccine (or infection) is affected by previous exposures to similar vaccines (or infections). Read more…
How do PFAS (forever chemicals) affect my health?
Biology/Immunity General Health
Chana Davis, PhD
PFAS (a type of forever chemical) are all around us – in water, food, dust, consumer products and more. Exposure to high levels of PFAS is a serious health hazard but the impact of low levels (that most people face) is unclear. PFAS pose the greatest threat to those who are highly exposed or are vulnerable Read more…
Can I get shingles over and over again?
Biology/Immunity Infectious Diseases
Roopa Seshadri, PhD, AM
Although not very common, getting shingles more than once is possible. The shingles vaccine can reduce the chance of recurrence. If you have had shingles, there is a small chance that you will get it again. This is called recurrent shingles. This is really understudied, and not a lot is known about why or how Read more…
If a variant has mutations in the spike protein, does that mean the vaccines won’t work?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Kristen Panthagani, MD, PhD
Tl;dr: mutations can make vaccines less effective, but that doesn’t mean they render them useless. Immunity isn’t all or nothing, and the current vaccines still provide protection, especially against severe disease and death. Many have been concerned that because (so far) our COVID vaccines have used the spike protein from the original SARS-CoV-2 virus (also Read more…
If I’ve already been infected with Omicron, am I protected against new variants?
Biology/Immunity
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The OG Omicron variant doesn’t seem to produce great cross-protection against other variants. BUT, if you were vaccinated + infected, the protection is MUCH higher. Omicron is spawning a lot of new “sub-variants,” no doubt thanks to the millions of chances it’s had to replicate and win the mutation lottery. Two sub-variants of Omicron Read more…
Why do some people not get COVID when everyone around them has it?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Guest Author Jessica Williams-Nguyen, PhD
TLDR; Many things impact infection risk, including vaccination status, prior exposures, genetics, and the specific details of one’s contact with infected people. Even when conditions seem ideal for transmission, it’s not a done deal. This is why, if COVID comes to your home, it’s worth trying to limit spread. And sometimes, you just get lucky. Read more…
Did getting exposed to fewer germs for the last 2 years weaken our immune systems?
Biology/Immunity Families/Kids
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Not likely. If your kids are suddenly getting sick a lot, this is likely due to “catching up” on exposures rather than a weakened immune system. Many families with young kids have been hunkered down for the better part of two years– a good % of a young child’s entire life. While isolation Read more…
Should I get a booster shot if I’ve already had COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Yes! Even if you have already been infected, getting the recommended booster vaccine is a good idea. There is some evidence that hybrid immunity, or immunity obtained from getting vaccinated and having a COVID-19 infection, can provide good protection against COVID-19. So why should I get a booster if I had COVID? Hybrid immunity can Read more…
I’m vaccinated, and I’ve recovered from Omicron. Can I finally let my guard down?
Biology/Immunity
Guest Author Jessica Williams-Nguyen, PhD
🙋 Asking for a friend… No wait, actually, I’m asking for me. After almost two years of precautions and a total of 10 vaccine shots, this Nerdy Girl’s family of four came down with COVID over the winter holidays, most likely the omicron variant. Now that we’re all fully recovered (thank you, vaccines!), it’s time Read more…
Will an infection after vaccination give me an immune boost?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: YES! We’ve gotten this question SO many times recently but had to rely on immunological best guesses (see here). *FINALLY* we have some real world data from that famous Provincetown, MA outbreak last summer. The study tested blood and nasal swabs of 35 vaccinated people who were PCR tested during the outbreak investigation, including Read more…
Can I take an antibody test to see if I need a booster shot?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Unfortunately, no. TL;DR: 💥Our current antibody tests can’t tell us how well someone is protected from COVID-19 infection or disease. Whether you have been previously infected, vaccinated, or a combination of the two, the recent authorization of booster shots in many countries has people wondering if they need one yet. While it would be Read more…
Want to know more about infection vs. vaccine induced immunity to SARS-CoV-2?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Immunologists who *really* do their own research on this topic have thoughts. Check out this infographic from the British Society for Immunology: TL;DR: ➡️ For most people vaccination will induce more effective & longer lasting immunity compared to natural infection. ➡️ Even if you’ve had COVID-19, vaccination will significantly boost the immunity you have from Read more…
Can sleep boost my immune function?
Biology/Immunity General Health
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Today we focus on the importance of sleep health as an evidence-based strategy for improving your immune system during the COVID-19 pandemic. ** Long-term sleep deficiency is associated with a range of co-morbidities (type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, dementia) that put you at higher susceptibility and more severe outcomes of COVID-19. You can reduce Read more…
Why should I get vaccinated if I already had COVID?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines Videos
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The vaccine boosts your immune response and gives you better protection against new variants. ➡️ Most people who get COVID-19 do have some antibodies after they recover. ➡️ But the level of antibodies varies from one person to another… So some people have a lot of protection, others–not so much. ➡️ Immune response to Read more…
Q: What is immune imprinting, and should the public be worried about it? A: Don’t let statements about imprinting stop you from getting your annual vaccines for COVID and flu. Immune imprinting refers to the fact that our immune response to a vaccine (or infection) is affected by previous exposures to similar vaccines (or infections). Read more…
How do PFAS (forever chemicals) affect my health?
Biology/Immunity General HealthChana Davis, PhD
PFAS (a type of forever chemical) are all around us – in water, food, dust, consumer products and more. Exposure to high levels of PFAS is a serious health hazard but the impact of low levels (that most people face) is unclear. PFAS pose the greatest threat to those who are highly exposed or are vulnerable Read more…
Can I get shingles over and over again?
Biology/Immunity Infectious Diseases
Roopa Seshadri, PhD, AM
Although not very common, getting shingles more than once is possible. The shingles vaccine can reduce the chance of recurrence. If you have had shingles, there is a small chance that you will get it again. This is called recurrent shingles. This is really understudied, and not a lot is known about why or how Read more…
If a variant has mutations in the spike protein, does that mean the vaccines won’t work?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Kristen Panthagani, MD, PhD
Tl;dr: mutations can make vaccines less effective, but that doesn’t mean they render them useless. Immunity isn’t all or nothing, and the current vaccines still provide protection, especially against severe disease and death. Many have been concerned that because (so far) our COVID vaccines have used the spike protein from the original SARS-CoV-2 virus (also Read more…
If I’ve already been infected with Omicron, am I protected against new variants?
Biology/Immunity
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The OG Omicron variant doesn’t seem to produce great cross-protection against other variants. BUT, if you were vaccinated + infected, the protection is MUCH higher. Omicron is spawning a lot of new “sub-variants,” no doubt thanks to the millions of chances it’s had to replicate and win the mutation lottery. Two sub-variants of Omicron Read more…
Why do some people not get COVID when everyone around them has it?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Guest Author Jessica Williams-Nguyen, PhD
TLDR; Many things impact infection risk, including vaccination status, prior exposures, genetics, and the specific details of one’s contact with infected people. Even when conditions seem ideal for transmission, it’s not a done deal. This is why, if COVID comes to your home, it’s worth trying to limit spread. And sometimes, you just get lucky. Read more…
Did getting exposed to fewer germs for the last 2 years weaken our immune systems?
Biology/Immunity Families/Kids
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Not likely. If your kids are suddenly getting sick a lot, this is likely due to “catching up” on exposures rather than a weakened immune system. Many families with young kids have been hunkered down for the better part of two years– a good % of a young child’s entire life. While isolation Read more…
Should I get a booster shot if I’ve already had COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Yes! Even if you have already been infected, getting the recommended booster vaccine is a good idea. There is some evidence that hybrid immunity, or immunity obtained from getting vaccinated and having a COVID-19 infection, can provide good protection against COVID-19. So why should I get a booster if I had COVID? Hybrid immunity can Read more…
I’m vaccinated, and I’ve recovered from Omicron. Can I finally let my guard down?
Biology/Immunity
Guest Author Jessica Williams-Nguyen, PhD
🙋 Asking for a friend… No wait, actually, I’m asking for me. After almost two years of precautions and a total of 10 vaccine shots, this Nerdy Girl’s family of four came down with COVID over the winter holidays, most likely the omicron variant. Now that we’re all fully recovered (thank you, vaccines!), it’s time Read more…
Will an infection after vaccination give me an immune boost?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: YES! We’ve gotten this question SO many times recently but had to rely on immunological best guesses (see here). *FINALLY* we have some real world data from that famous Provincetown, MA outbreak last summer. The study tested blood and nasal swabs of 35 vaccinated people who were PCR tested during the outbreak investigation, including Read more…
Can I take an antibody test to see if I need a booster shot?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Unfortunately, no. TL;DR: 💥Our current antibody tests can’t tell us how well someone is protected from COVID-19 infection or disease. Whether you have been previously infected, vaccinated, or a combination of the two, the recent authorization of booster shots in many countries has people wondering if they need one yet. While it would be Read more…
Want to know more about infection vs. vaccine induced immunity to SARS-CoV-2?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Immunologists who *really* do their own research on this topic have thoughts. Check out this infographic from the British Society for Immunology: TL;DR: ➡️ For most people vaccination will induce more effective & longer lasting immunity compared to natural infection. ➡️ Even if you’ve had COVID-19, vaccination will significantly boost the immunity you have from Read more…
Can sleep boost my immune function?
Biology/Immunity General Health
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Today we focus on the importance of sleep health as an evidence-based strategy for improving your immune system during the COVID-19 pandemic. ** Long-term sleep deficiency is associated with a range of co-morbidities (type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, dementia) that put you at higher susceptibility and more severe outcomes of COVID-19. You can reduce Read more…
Why should I get vaccinated if I already had COVID?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines Videos
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The vaccine boosts your immune response and gives you better protection against new variants. ➡️ Most people who get COVID-19 do have some antibodies after they recover. ➡️ But the level of antibodies varies from one person to another… So some people have a lot of protection, others–not so much. ➡️ Immune response to Read more…
PFAS (a type of forever chemical) are all around us – in water, food, dust, consumer products and more. Exposure to high levels of PFAS is a serious health hazard but the impact of low levels (that most people face) is unclear. PFAS pose the greatest threat to those who are highly exposed or are vulnerable Read more…
Can I get shingles over and over again?
Biology/Immunity Infectious DiseasesRoopa Seshadri, PhD, AM
Although not very common, getting shingles more than once is possible. The shingles vaccine can reduce the chance of recurrence. If you have had shingles, there is a small chance that you will get it again. This is called recurrent shingles. This is really understudied, and not a lot is known about why or how Read more…
If a variant has mutations in the spike protein, does that mean the vaccines won’t work?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Kristen Panthagani, MD, PhD
Tl;dr: mutations can make vaccines less effective, but that doesn’t mean they render them useless. Immunity isn’t all or nothing, and the current vaccines still provide protection, especially against severe disease and death. Many have been concerned that because (so far) our COVID vaccines have used the spike protein from the original SARS-CoV-2 virus (also Read more…
If I’ve already been infected with Omicron, am I protected against new variants?
Biology/Immunity
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The OG Omicron variant doesn’t seem to produce great cross-protection against other variants. BUT, if you were vaccinated + infected, the protection is MUCH higher. Omicron is spawning a lot of new “sub-variants,” no doubt thanks to the millions of chances it’s had to replicate and win the mutation lottery. Two sub-variants of Omicron Read more…
Why do some people not get COVID when everyone around them has it?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Guest Author Jessica Williams-Nguyen, PhD
TLDR; Many things impact infection risk, including vaccination status, prior exposures, genetics, and the specific details of one’s contact with infected people. Even when conditions seem ideal for transmission, it’s not a done deal. This is why, if COVID comes to your home, it’s worth trying to limit spread. And sometimes, you just get lucky. Read more…
Did getting exposed to fewer germs for the last 2 years weaken our immune systems?
Biology/Immunity Families/Kids
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Not likely. If your kids are suddenly getting sick a lot, this is likely due to “catching up” on exposures rather than a weakened immune system. Many families with young kids have been hunkered down for the better part of two years– a good % of a young child’s entire life. While isolation Read more…
Should I get a booster shot if I’ve already had COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Yes! Even if you have already been infected, getting the recommended booster vaccine is a good idea. There is some evidence that hybrid immunity, or immunity obtained from getting vaccinated and having a COVID-19 infection, can provide good protection against COVID-19. So why should I get a booster if I had COVID? Hybrid immunity can Read more…
I’m vaccinated, and I’ve recovered from Omicron. Can I finally let my guard down?
Biology/Immunity
Guest Author Jessica Williams-Nguyen, PhD
🙋 Asking for a friend… No wait, actually, I’m asking for me. After almost two years of precautions and a total of 10 vaccine shots, this Nerdy Girl’s family of four came down with COVID over the winter holidays, most likely the omicron variant. Now that we’re all fully recovered (thank you, vaccines!), it’s time Read more…
Will an infection after vaccination give me an immune boost?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: YES! We’ve gotten this question SO many times recently but had to rely on immunological best guesses (see here). *FINALLY* we have some real world data from that famous Provincetown, MA outbreak last summer. The study tested blood and nasal swabs of 35 vaccinated people who were PCR tested during the outbreak investigation, including Read more…
Can I take an antibody test to see if I need a booster shot?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Unfortunately, no. TL;DR: 💥Our current antibody tests can’t tell us how well someone is protected from COVID-19 infection or disease. Whether you have been previously infected, vaccinated, or a combination of the two, the recent authorization of booster shots in many countries has people wondering if they need one yet. While it would be Read more…
Want to know more about infection vs. vaccine induced immunity to SARS-CoV-2?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Immunologists who *really* do their own research on this topic have thoughts. Check out this infographic from the British Society for Immunology: TL;DR: ➡️ For most people vaccination will induce more effective & longer lasting immunity compared to natural infection. ➡️ Even if you’ve had COVID-19, vaccination will significantly boost the immunity you have from Read more…
Can sleep boost my immune function?
Biology/Immunity General Health
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Today we focus on the importance of sleep health as an evidence-based strategy for improving your immune system during the COVID-19 pandemic. ** Long-term sleep deficiency is associated with a range of co-morbidities (type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, dementia) that put you at higher susceptibility and more severe outcomes of COVID-19. You can reduce Read more…
Why should I get vaccinated if I already had COVID?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines Videos
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The vaccine boosts your immune response and gives you better protection against new variants. ➡️ Most people who get COVID-19 do have some antibodies after they recover. ➡️ But the level of antibodies varies from one person to another… So some people have a lot of protection, others–not so much. ➡️ Immune response to Read more…
Although not very common, getting shingles more than once is possible. The shingles vaccine can reduce the chance of recurrence. If you have had shingles, there is a small chance that you will get it again. This is called recurrent shingles. This is really understudied, and not a lot is known about why or how Read more…
If a variant has mutations in the spike protein, does that mean the vaccines won’t work?
Biology/Immunity VaccinesKristen Panthagani, MD, PhD
Tl;dr: mutations can make vaccines less effective, but that doesn’t mean they render them useless. Immunity isn’t all or nothing, and the current vaccines still provide protection, especially against severe disease and death. Many have been concerned that because (so far) our COVID vaccines have used the spike protein from the original SARS-CoV-2 virus (also Read more…
If I’ve already been infected with Omicron, am I protected against new variants?
Biology/Immunity
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The OG Omicron variant doesn’t seem to produce great cross-protection against other variants. BUT, if you were vaccinated + infected, the protection is MUCH higher. Omicron is spawning a lot of new “sub-variants,” no doubt thanks to the millions of chances it’s had to replicate and win the mutation lottery. Two sub-variants of Omicron Read more…
Why do some people not get COVID when everyone around them has it?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Guest Author Jessica Williams-Nguyen, PhD
TLDR; Many things impact infection risk, including vaccination status, prior exposures, genetics, and the specific details of one’s contact with infected people. Even when conditions seem ideal for transmission, it’s not a done deal. This is why, if COVID comes to your home, it’s worth trying to limit spread. And sometimes, you just get lucky. Read more…
Did getting exposed to fewer germs for the last 2 years weaken our immune systems?
Biology/Immunity Families/Kids
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Not likely. If your kids are suddenly getting sick a lot, this is likely due to “catching up” on exposures rather than a weakened immune system. Many families with young kids have been hunkered down for the better part of two years– a good % of a young child’s entire life. While isolation Read more…
Should I get a booster shot if I’ve already had COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Yes! Even if you have already been infected, getting the recommended booster vaccine is a good idea. There is some evidence that hybrid immunity, or immunity obtained from getting vaccinated and having a COVID-19 infection, can provide good protection against COVID-19. So why should I get a booster if I had COVID? Hybrid immunity can Read more…
I’m vaccinated, and I’ve recovered from Omicron. Can I finally let my guard down?
Biology/Immunity
Guest Author Jessica Williams-Nguyen, PhD
🙋 Asking for a friend… No wait, actually, I’m asking for me. After almost two years of precautions and a total of 10 vaccine shots, this Nerdy Girl’s family of four came down with COVID over the winter holidays, most likely the omicron variant. Now that we’re all fully recovered (thank you, vaccines!), it’s time Read more…
Will an infection after vaccination give me an immune boost?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: YES! We’ve gotten this question SO many times recently but had to rely on immunological best guesses (see here). *FINALLY* we have some real world data from that famous Provincetown, MA outbreak last summer. The study tested blood and nasal swabs of 35 vaccinated people who were PCR tested during the outbreak investigation, including Read more…
Can I take an antibody test to see if I need a booster shot?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Unfortunately, no. TL;DR: 💥Our current antibody tests can’t tell us how well someone is protected from COVID-19 infection or disease. Whether you have been previously infected, vaccinated, or a combination of the two, the recent authorization of booster shots in many countries has people wondering if they need one yet. While it would be Read more…
Want to know more about infection vs. vaccine induced immunity to SARS-CoV-2?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Immunologists who *really* do their own research on this topic have thoughts. Check out this infographic from the British Society for Immunology: TL;DR: ➡️ For most people vaccination will induce more effective & longer lasting immunity compared to natural infection. ➡️ Even if you’ve had COVID-19, vaccination will significantly boost the immunity you have from Read more…
Can sleep boost my immune function?
Biology/Immunity General Health
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Today we focus on the importance of sleep health as an evidence-based strategy for improving your immune system during the COVID-19 pandemic. ** Long-term sleep deficiency is associated with a range of co-morbidities (type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, dementia) that put you at higher susceptibility and more severe outcomes of COVID-19. You can reduce Read more…
Why should I get vaccinated if I already had COVID?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines Videos
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The vaccine boosts your immune response and gives you better protection against new variants. ➡️ Most people who get COVID-19 do have some antibodies after they recover. ➡️ But the level of antibodies varies from one person to another… So some people have a lot of protection, others–not so much. ➡️ Immune response to Read more…
Tl;dr: mutations can make vaccines less effective, but that doesn’t mean they render them useless. Immunity isn’t all or nothing, and the current vaccines still provide protection, especially against severe disease and death. Many have been concerned that because (so far) our COVID vaccines have used the spike protein from the original SARS-CoV-2 virus (also Read more…
If I’ve already been infected with Omicron, am I protected against new variants?
Biology/ImmunityJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The OG Omicron variant doesn’t seem to produce great cross-protection against other variants. BUT, if you were vaccinated + infected, the protection is MUCH higher. Omicron is spawning a lot of new “sub-variants,” no doubt thanks to the millions of chances it’s had to replicate and win the mutation lottery. Two sub-variants of Omicron Read more…
Why do some people not get COVID when everyone around them has it?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Guest Author Jessica Williams-Nguyen, PhD
TLDR; Many things impact infection risk, including vaccination status, prior exposures, genetics, and the specific details of one’s contact with infected people. Even when conditions seem ideal for transmission, it’s not a done deal. This is why, if COVID comes to your home, it’s worth trying to limit spread. And sometimes, you just get lucky. Read more…
Did getting exposed to fewer germs for the last 2 years weaken our immune systems?
Biology/Immunity Families/Kids
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Not likely. If your kids are suddenly getting sick a lot, this is likely due to “catching up” on exposures rather than a weakened immune system. Many families with young kids have been hunkered down for the better part of two years– a good % of a young child’s entire life. While isolation Read more…
Should I get a booster shot if I’ve already had COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Yes! Even if you have already been infected, getting the recommended booster vaccine is a good idea. There is some evidence that hybrid immunity, or immunity obtained from getting vaccinated and having a COVID-19 infection, can provide good protection against COVID-19. So why should I get a booster if I had COVID? Hybrid immunity can Read more…
I’m vaccinated, and I’ve recovered from Omicron. Can I finally let my guard down?
Biology/Immunity
Guest Author Jessica Williams-Nguyen, PhD
🙋 Asking for a friend… No wait, actually, I’m asking for me. After almost two years of precautions and a total of 10 vaccine shots, this Nerdy Girl’s family of four came down with COVID over the winter holidays, most likely the omicron variant. Now that we’re all fully recovered (thank you, vaccines!), it’s time Read more…
Will an infection after vaccination give me an immune boost?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: YES! We’ve gotten this question SO many times recently but had to rely on immunological best guesses (see here). *FINALLY* we have some real world data from that famous Provincetown, MA outbreak last summer. The study tested blood and nasal swabs of 35 vaccinated people who were PCR tested during the outbreak investigation, including Read more…
Can I take an antibody test to see if I need a booster shot?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Unfortunately, no. TL;DR: 💥Our current antibody tests can’t tell us how well someone is protected from COVID-19 infection or disease. Whether you have been previously infected, vaccinated, or a combination of the two, the recent authorization of booster shots in many countries has people wondering if they need one yet. While it would be Read more…
Want to know more about infection vs. vaccine induced immunity to SARS-CoV-2?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Immunologists who *really* do their own research on this topic have thoughts. Check out this infographic from the British Society for Immunology: TL;DR: ➡️ For most people vaccination will induce more effective & longer lasting immunity compared to natural infection. ➡️ Even if you’ve had COVID-19, vaccination will significantly boost the immunity you have from Read more…
Can sleep boost my immune function?
Biology/Immunity General Health
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Today we focus on the importance of sleep health as an evidence-based strategy for improving your immune system during the COVID-19 pandemic. ** Long-term sleep deficiency is associated with a range of co-morbidities (type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, dementia) that put you at higher susceptibility and more severe outcomes of COVID-19. You can reduce Read more…
Why should I get vaccinated if I already had COVID?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines Videos
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The vaccine boosts your immune response and gives you better protection against new variants. ➡️ Most people who get COVID-19 do have some antibodies after they recover. ➡️ But the level of antibodies varies from one person to another… So some people have a lot of protection, others–not so much. ➡️ Immune response to Read more…
A: The OG Omicron variant doesn’t seem to produce great cross-protection against other variants. BUT, if you were vaccinated + infected, the protection is MUCH higher. Omicron is spawning a lot of new “sub-variants,” no doubt thanks to the millions of chances it’s had to replicate and win the mutation lottery. Two sub-variants of Omicron Read more…
Why do some people not get COVID when everyone around them has it?
Biology/Immunity Infection and SpreadGuest Author Jessica Williams-Nguyen, PhD
TLDR; Many things impact infection risk, including vaccination status, prior exposures, genetics, and the specific details of one’s contact with infected people. Even when conditions seem ideal for transmission, it’s not a done deal. This is why, if COVID comes to your home, it’s worth trying to limit spread. And sometimes, you just get lucky. Read more…
Did getting exposed to fewer germs for the last 2 years weaken our immune systems?
Biology/Immunity Families/Kids
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Not likely. If your kids are suddenly getting sick a lot, this is likely due to “catching up” on exposures rather than a weakened immune system. Many families with young kids have been hunkered down for the better part of two years– a good % of a young child’s entire life. While isolation Read more…
Should I get a booster shot if I’ve already had COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Yes! Even if you have already been infected, getting the recommended booster vaccine is a good idea. There is some evidence that hybrid immunity, or immunity obtained from getting vaccinated and having a COVID-19 infection, can provide good protection against COVID-19. So why should I get a booster if I had COVID? Hybrid immunity can Read more…
I’m vaccinated, and I’ve recovered from Omicron. Can I finally let my guard down?
Biology/Immunity
Guest Author Jessica Williams-Nguyen, PhD
🙋 Asking for a friend… No wait, actually, I’m asking for me. After almost two years of precautions and a total of 10 vaccine shots, this Nerdy Girl’s family of four came down with COVID over the winter holidays, most likely the omicron variant. Now that we’re all fully recovered (thank you, vaccines!), it’s time Read more…
Will an infection after vaccination give me an immune boost?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: YES! We’ve gotten this question SO many times recently but had to rely on immunological best guesses (see here). *FINALLY* we have some real world data from that famous Provincetown, MA outbreak last summer. The study tested blood and nasal swabs of 35 vaccinated people who were PCR tested during the outbreak investigation, including Read more…
Can I take an antibody test to see if I need a booster shot?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Unfortunately, no. TL;DR: 💥Our current antibody tests can’t tell us how well someone is protected from COVID-19 infection or disease. Whether you have been previously infected, vaccinated, or a combination of the two, the recent authorization of booster shots in many countries has people wondering if they need one yet. While it would be Read more…
Want to know more about infection vs. vaccine induced immunity to SARS-CoV-2?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Immunologists who *really* do their own research on this topic have thoughts. Check out this infographic from the British Society for Immunology: TL;DR: ➡️ For most people vaccination will induce more effective & longer lasting immunity compared to natural infection. ➡️ Even if you’ve had COVID-19, vaccination will significantly boost the immunity you have from Read more…
Can sleep boost my immune function?
Biology/Immunity General Health
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Today we focus on the importance of sleep health as an evidence-based strategy for improving your immune system during the COVID-19 pandemic. ** Long-term sleep deficiency is associated with a range of co-morbidities (type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, dementia) that put you at higher susceptibility and more severe outcomes of COVID-19. You can reduce Read more…
Why should I get vaccinated if I already had COVID?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines Videos
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The vaccine boosts your immune response and gives you better protection against new variants. ➡️ Most people who get COVID-19 do have some antibodies after they recover. ➡️ But the level of antibodies varies from one person to another… So some people have a lot of protection, others–not so much. ➡️ Immune response to Read more…
TLDR; Many things impact infection risk, including vaccination status, prior exposures, genetics, and the specific details of one’s contact with infected people. Even when conditions seem ideal for transmission, it’s not a done deal. This is why, if COVID comes to your home, it’s worth trying to limit spread. And sometimes, you just get lucky. Read more…
Did getting exposed to fewer germs for the last 2 years weaken our immune systems?
Biology/Immunity Families/KidsJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Not likely. If your kids are suddenly getting sick a lot, this is likely due to “catching up” on exposures rather than a weakened immune system. Many families with young kids have been hunkered down for the better part of two years– a good % of a young child’s entire life. While isolation Read more…
Should I get a booster shot if I’ve already had COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Yes! Even if you have already been infected, getting the recommended booster vaccine is a good idea. There is some evidence that hybrid immunity, or immunity obtained from getting vaccinated and having a COVID-19 infection, can provide good protection against COVID-19. So why should I get a booster if I had COVID? Hybrid immunity can Read more…
I’m vaccinated, and I’ve recovered from Omicron. Can I finally let my guard down?
Biology/Immunity
Guest Author Jessica Williams-Nguyen, PhD
🙋 Asking for a friend… No wait, actually, I’m asking for me. After almost two years of precautions and a total of 10 vaccine shots, this Nerdy Girl’s family of four came down with COVID over the winter holidays, most likely the omicron variant. Now that we’re all fully recovered (thank you, vaccines!), it’s time Read more…
Will an infection after vaccination give me an immune boost?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: YES! We’ve gotten this question SO many times recently but had to rely on immunological best guesses (see here). *FINALLY* we have some real world data from that famous Provincetown, MA outbreak last summer. The study tested blood and nasal swabs of 35 vaccinated people who were PCR tested during the outbreak investigation, including Read more…
Can I take an antibody test to see if I need a booster shot?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Unfortunately, no. TL;DR: 💥Our current antibody tests can’t tell us how well someone is protected from COVID-19 infection or disease. Whether you have been previously infected, vaccinated, or a combination of the two, the recent authorization of booster shots in many countries has people wondering if they need one yet. While it would be Read more…
Want to know more about infection vs. vaccine induced immunity to SARS-CoV-2?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Immunologists who *really* do their own research on this topic have thoughts. Check out this infographic from the British Society for Immunology: TL;DR: ➡️ For most people vaccination will induce more effective & longer lasting immunity compared to natural infection. ➡️ Even if you’ve had COVID-19, vaccination will significantly boost the immunity you have from Read more…
Can sleep boost my immune function?
Biology/Immunity General Health
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Today we focus on the importance of sleep health as an evidence-based strategy for improving your immune system during the COVID-19 pandemic. ** Long-term sleep deficiency is associated with a range of co-morbidities (type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, dementia) that put you at higher susceptibility and more severe outcomes of COVID-19. You can reduce Read more…
Why should I get vaccinated if I already had COVID?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines Videos
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The vaccine boosts your immune response and gives you better protection against new variants. ➡️ Most people who get COVID-19 do have some antibodies after they recover. ➡️ But the level of antibodies varies from one person to another… So some people have a lot of protection, others–not so much. ➡️ Immune response to Read more…
A: Not likely. If your kids are suddenly getting sick a lot, this is likely due to “catching up” on exposures rather than a weakened immune system. Many families with young kids have been hunkered down for the better part of two years– a good % of a young child’s entire life. While isolation Read more…
Should I get a booster shot if I’ve already had COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity VaccinesSarah Whitley Coles, MD
Yes! Even if you have already been infected, getting the recommended booster vaccine is a good idea. There is some evidence that hybrid immunity, or immunity obtained from getting vaccinated and having a COVID-19 infection, can provide good protection against COVID-19. So why should I get a booster if I had COVID? Hybrid immunity can Read more…
I’m vaccinated, and I’ve recovered from Omicron. Can I finally let my guard down?
Biology/Immunity
Guest Author Jessica Williams-Nguyen, PhD
🙋 Asking for a friend… No wait, actually, I’m asking for me. After almost two years of precautions and a total of 10 vaccine shots, this Nerdy Girl’s family of four came down with COVID over the winter holidays, most likely the omicron variant. Now that we’re all fully recovered (thank you, vaccines!), it’s time Read more…
Will an infection after vaccination give me an immune boost?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: YES! We’ve gotten this question SO many times recently but had to rely on immunological best guesses (see here). *FINALLY* we have some real world data from that famous Provincetown, MA outbreak last summer. The study tested blood and nasal swabs of 35 vaccinated people who were PCR tested during the outbreak investigation, including Read more…
Can I take an antibody test to see if I need a booster shot?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Unfortunately, no. TL;DR: 💥Our current antibody tests can’t tell us how well someone is protected from COVID-19 infection or disease. Whether you have been previously infected, vaccinated, or a combination of the two, the recent authorization of booster shots in many countries has people wondering if they need one yet. While it would be Read more…
Want to know more about infection vs. vaccine induced immunity to SARS-CoV-2?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Immunologists who *really* do their own research on this topic have thoughts. Check out this infographic from the British Society for Immunology: TL;DR: ➡️ For most people vaccination will induce more effective & longer lasting immunity compared to natural infection. ➡️ Even if you’ve had COVID-19, vaccination will significantly boost the immunity you have from Read more…
Can sleep boost my immune function?
Biology/Immunity General Health
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Today we focus on the importance of sleep health as an evidence-based strategy for improving your immune system during the COVID-19 pandemic. ** Long-term sleep deficiency is associated with a range of co-morbidities (type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, dementia) that put you at higher susceptibility and more severe outcomes of COVID-19. You can reduce Read more…
Why should I get vaccinated if I already had COVID?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines Videos
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The vaccine boosts your immune response and gives you better protection against new variants. ➡️ Most people who get COVID-19 do have some antibodies after they recover. ➡️ But the level of antibodies varies from one person to another… So some people have a lot of protection, others–not so much. ➡️ Immune response to Read more…
Yes! Even if you have already been infected, getting the recommended booster vaccine is a good idea. There is some evidence that hybrid immunity, or immunity obtained from getting vaccinated and having a COVID-19 infection, can provide good protection against COVID-19. So why should I get a booster if I had COVID? Hybrid immunity can Read more…
I’m vaccinated, and I’ve recovered from Omicron. Can I finally let my guard down?
Biology/ImmunityGuest Author Jessica Williams-Nguyen, PhD
🙋 Asking for a friend… No wait, actually, I’m asking for me. After almost two years of precautions and a total of 10 vaccine shots, this Nerdy Girl’s family of four came down with COVID over the winter holidays, most likely the omicron variant. Now that we’re all fully recovered (thank you, vaccines!), it’s time Read more…
Will an infection after vaccination give me an immune boost?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: YES! We’ve gotten this question SO many times recently but had to rely on immunological best guesses (see here). *FINALLY* we have some real world data from that famous Provincetown, MA outbreak last summer. The study tested blood and nasal swabs of 35 vaccinated people who were PCR tested during the outbreak investigation, including Read more…
Can I take an antibody test to see if I need a booster shot?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Unfortunately, no. TL;DR: 💥Our current antibody tests can’t tell us how well someone is protected from COVID-19 infection or disease. Whether you have been previously infected, vaccinated, or a combination of the two, the recent authorization of booster shots in many countries has people wondering if they need one yet. While it would be Read more…
Want to know more about infection vs. vaccine induced immunity to SARS-CoV-2?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Immunologists who *really* do their own research on this topic have thoughts. Check out this infographic from the British Society for Immunology: TL;DR: ➡️ For most people vaccination will induce more effective & longer lasting immunity compared to natural infection. ➡️ Even if you’ve had COVID-19, vaccination will significantly boost the immunity you have from Read more…
Can sleep boost my immune function?
Biology/Immunity General Health
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Today we focus on the importance of sleep health as an evidence-based strategy for improving your immune system during the COVID-19 pandemic. ** Long-term sleep deficiency is associated with a range of co-morbidities (type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, dementia) that put you at higher susceptibility and more severe outcomes of COVID-19. You can reduce Read more…
Why should I get vaccinated if I already had COVID?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines Videos
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The vaccine boosts your immune response and gives you better protection against new variants. ➡️ Most people who get COVID-19 do have some antibodies after they recover. ➡️ But the level of antibodies varies from one person to another… So some people have a lot of protection, others–not so much. ➡️ Immune response to Read more…
🙋 Asking for a friend… No wait, actually, I’m asking for me. After almost two years of precautions and a total of 10 vaccine shots, this Nerdy Girl’s family of four came down with COVID over the winter holidays, most likely the omicron variant. Now that we’re all fully recovered (thank you, vaccines!), it’s time Read more…
Will an infection after vaccination give me an immune boost?
Biology/Immunity VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: YES! We’ve gotten this question SO many times recently but had to rely on immunological best guesses (see here). *FINALLY* we have some real world data from that famous Provincetown, MA outbreak last summer. The study tested blood and nasal swabs of 35 vaccinated people who were PCR tested during the outbreak investigation, including Read more…
Can I take an antibody test to see if I need a booster shot?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Unfortunately, no. TL;DR: 💥Our current antibody tests can’t tell us how well someone is protected from COVID-19 infection or disease. Whether you have been previously infected, vaccinated, or a combination of the two, the recent authorization of booster shots in many countries has people wondering if they need one yet. While it would be Read more…
Want to know more about infection vs. vaccine induced immunity to SARS-CoV-2?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Immunologists who *really* do their own research on this topic have thoughts. Check out this infographic from the British Society for Immunology: TL;DR: ➡️ For most people vaccination will induce more effective & longer lasting immunity compared to natural infection. ➡️ Even if you’ve had COVID-19, vaccination will significantly boost the immunity you have from Read more…
Can sleep boost my immune function?
Biology/Immunity General Health
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Today we focus on the importance of sleep health as an evidence-based strategy for improving your immune system during the COVID-19 pandemic. ** Long-term sleep deficiency is associated with a range of co-morbidities (type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, dementia) that put you at higher susceptibility and more severe outcomes of COVID-19. You can reduce Read more…
Why should I get vaccinated if I already had COVID?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines Videos
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The vaccine boosts your immune response and gives you better protection against new variants. ➡️ Most people who get COVID-19 do have some antibodies after they recover. ➡️ But the level of antibodies varies from one person to another… So some people have a lot of protection, others–not so much. ➡️ Immune response to Read more…
A: YES! We’ve gotten this question SO many times recently but had to rely on immunological best guesses (see here). *FINALLY* we have some real world data from that famous Provincetown, MA outbreak last summer. The study tested blood and nasal swabs of 35 vaccinated people who were PCR tested during the outbreak investigation, including Read more…
Can I take an antibody test to see if I need a booster shot?
Biology/Immunity VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Unfortunately, no. TL;DR: 💥Our current antibody tests can’t tell us how well someone is protected from COVID-19 infection or disease. Whether you have been previously infected, vaccinated, or a combination of the two, the recent authorization of booster shots in many countries has people wondering if they need one yet. While it would be Read more…
Want to know more about infection vs. vaccine induced immunity to SARS-CoV-2?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Immunologists who *really* do their own research on this topic have thoughts. Check out this infographic from the British Society for Immunology: TL;DR: ➡️ For most people vaccination will induce more effective & longer lasting immunity compared to natural infection. ➡️ Even if you’ve had COVID-19, vaccination will significantly boost the immunity you have from Read more…
Can sleep boost my immune function?
Biology/Immunity General Health
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Today we focus on the importance of sleep health as an evidence-based strategy for improving your immune system during the COVID-19 pandemic. ** Long-term sleep deficiency is associated with a range of co-morbidities (type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, dementia) that put you at higher susceptibility and more severe outcomes of COVID-19. You can reduce Read more…
Why should I get vaccinated if I already had COVID?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines Videos
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The vaccine boosts your immune response and gives you better protection against new variants. ➡️ Most people who get COVID-19 do have some antibodies after they recover. ➡️ But the level of antibodies varies from one person to another… So some people have a lot of protection, others–not so much. ➡️ Immune response to Read more…
A: Unfortunately, no. TL;DR: 💥Our current antibody tests can’t tell us how well someone is protected from COVID-19 infection or disease. Whether you have been previously infected, vaccinated, or a combination of the two, the recent authorization of booster shots in many countries has people wondering if they need one yet. While it would be Read more…
Want to know more about infection vs. vaccine induced immunity to SARS-CoV-2?
Biology/Immunity VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Immunologists who *really* do their own research on this topic have thoughts. Check out this infographic from the British Society for Immunology: TL;DR: ➡️ For most people vaccination will induce more effective & longer lasting immunity compared to natural infection. ➡️ Even if you’ve had COVID-19, vaccination will significantly boost the immunity you have from Read more…
Can sleep boost my immune function?
Biology/Immunity General Health
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Today we focus on the importance of sleep health as an evidence-based strategy for improving your immune system during the COVID-19 pandemic. ** Long-term sleep deficiency is associated with a range of co-morbidities (type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, dementia) that put you at higher susceptibility and more severe outcomes of COVID-19. You can reduce Read more…
Why should I get vaccinated if I already had COVID?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines Videos
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The vaccine boosts your immune response and gives you better protection against new variants. ➡️ Most people who get COVID-19 do have some antibodies after they recover. ➡️ But the level of antibodies varies from one person to another… So some people have a lot of protection, others–not so much. ➡️ Immune response to Read more…
Immunologists who *really* do their own research on this topic have thoughts. Check out this infographic from the British Society for Immunology: TL;DR: ➡️ For most people vaccination will induce more effective & longer lasting immunity compared to natural infection. ➡️ Even if you’ve had COVID-19, vaccination will significantly boost the immunity you have from Read more…
Can sleep boost my immune function?
Biology/Immunity General HealthLauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Today we focus on the importance of sleep health as an evidence-based strategy for improving your immune system during the COVID-19 pandemic. ** Long-term sleep deficiency is associated with a range of co-morbidities (type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, dementia) that put you at higher susceptibility and more severe outcomes of COVID-19. You can reduce Read more…
Why should I get vaccinated if I already had COVID?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines Videos
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The vaccine boosts your immune response and gives you better protection against new variants. ➡️ Most people who get COVID-19 do have some antibodies after they recover. ➡️ But the level of antibodies varies from one person to another… So some people have a lot of protection, others–not so much. ➡️ Immune response to Read more…
A: Today we focus on the importance of sleep health as an evidence-based strategy for improving your immune system during the COVID-19 pandemic. ** Long-term sleep deficiency is associated with a range of co-morbidities (type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, dementia) that put you at higher susceptibility and more severe outcomes of COVID-19. You can reduce Read more…
Why should I get vaccinated if I already had COVID?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines VideosJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The vaccine boosts your immune response and gives you better protection against new variants. ➡️ Most people who get COVID-19 do have some antibodies after they recover. ➡️ But the level of antibodies varies from one person to another… So some people have a lot of protection, others–not so much. ➡️ Immune response to Read more…
A: The vaccine boosts your immune response and gives you better protection against new variants. ➡️ Most people who get COVID-19 do have some antibodies after they recover. ➡️ But the level of antibodies varies from one person to another… So some people have a lot of protection, others–not so much. ➡️ Immune response to Read more…
